Course Structure

This 4-part online course with author, nature advocate and Project Coyote Artist Ambassador Vanessa Chakour will include a mixture of:

Readings:

Engaging excerpts from literature that explore the wonder of nature and human-wildlife relationships. We’ll look at scientific writing, poetry and prose and how their integration can challenge stereotypes, build empathy for wildlife, and inspire change. 

Discussions:

Exploration of the chosen readings and their impact on our understanding of the inner and outer wilds. We’ll also discuss the creative process and craft of writing. 

Writing Prompts:

Thought-provoking writing exercises designed to spark creativity, build intimacy with the natural world, and strengthen your writing. 

Activities Between Sessions:

Writing exercises that include exploration of your local environment as a source of inspiration: How can your keen observation, sensory awareness and attention to detail inspire wonder and appreciation in others?

Each session will have access to Google Doc with notes, prompts and practices to engage in between sessions. The Google Doc for the smaller seminar session will be interactive while the lecture session will be reading only.

Read Vanessa’s essay: “Creating Corridors: How Storytelling Fosters Empathy for Wild Kin” on Project Coyote’s Notes From The Field.

An important note:

Sharing creative work requires vulnerability, and it is important for that experience to feel safe and supported. We aim to foster spaces where students feel encouraged to bring their most honest selves to class and to the page. As a participant, we ask that you practice deep listening, compassion, and acceptance of everyone involved. Discrimination, harassment, or abuse on the basis of ability, age, appearance, economic class, gender identification, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or any other aspect of the participant's identity will not be tolerated, and will result in dismissal from class.